It is already accessible from outside Microsoft's network infrastructure

Dec 12, 2011 16:53 GMT  ·  By

Last week, Microsoft detailed to the world the upcoming portal of applications for its new Windows 8 operating system, the Windows Store, and some more info on what it will be all about has emerged.

The app storefront will include applications designed for the Metro UI that Windows 8 includes, and which should prove of great use when coupled with touchscreen-enabled devices.

Microsoft has unveiled a wide range of details on the upcoming service, including the fact that it will be complemented by a web version, yet we still have only a fade idea of what it will actually look like when loaded on devices.

However, the new screenshots that emerged over at winunleaked.tk are meant to shed some light on the matter, offering a better view of what users will experience on their devices.

Moreover, they note that Microsoft is making constant advancements towards making the Windows Store available for public access, something that should happen in late February, when Windows 8 beta is made available as well.

The Store already allows access through the use of Windows Live ID, and is said to not require an internal domain anymore.

What’s more, it will feature a download manager, which should provide users with increased control over the apps they download and install.

Just as Microsoft said, applications will be listed in various categories, such as best apps or most popular, which should offer users the possibility to discover new software easier.

The Windows Store will include only Metro-style applications when launched, which means that it will be accessible only from the Windows 8 platform.

However, Microsoft will also enable app discovery over the web, and Store results will emerge on searches on Bing and other engines.

At launch, the storefront will include only free applications, yet Microsoft announced that it will allow for paid and ad-supported applications to be submitted as well.

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